Cutting through the overgrown bushes frustrated Shay. He itched to move faster, get to higher ground. Too many threats. Though he spared the amount of cuts he made, he knew they’d left behind a trail obvious as a billboard. Sam only hoped the peasants trailing them were more desperate than skilled. “Am I slowing you down?” He flicked away a mosquito. “We’re doing okay.” His first concern was getting Kelly to safety. And that meant risk. She’s survived just fine without you these past years, his inner voice mocked. Burning curiosity made him ask the question. “What happened after you left the estate?” He had to know. All those nights roaming the forested mountains out West, his heart shattered, he’d never ceased worrying about her. When the stars came out, he’d lie down in a grassy meadow, hands fisted beneath his head, and gaze skyward.
